Thoughtful Articles

In 2008 we found ourselves like most other Americans. We had just had our first child, were new homeowners and lost more than half of our income due to the crash over night. We learned how to pivot, sped ourselves up even more and found new ways to bring in income. It wasn’t easy and looking back, we’re surprised we made it through honestly. Personally my mental health suffered a bit as I never actually took any time off of the hustle.

Fast-forward a decade we’re now parents to three children, own five businesses and a bunch of dogs. As a mother, I felt completely depleted and way too busy. Our mantra Slow Yourself Down had become not only a thriving business but a reminder for so many, who also felt the busyness of life. But the problem was I didn’t see how I could jump off the busy train, how could I actually slow myself down.

Although my husband always mastered how to take moments in the day to breathe and look up from his phone to see all the blessings, it was something I had to slowly learn. Like so many of us hard workers, my off switch only went on when I was either sleeping or on vacation. So I found myself always tired and always wanting to plan the next trip.

But then, out of nowhere my father, an unbelievably hard-working man my entire life, died. It was a huge wake up call I’ve needed quite possibly my entire life. It shifted my perspective and my discipline in a way that made me question all I do really.

Why I choose scrolling on a device I yell at my kids for being on too much, over meditating or playing my guitar. Why I choose to never take a break throughout the busy days, to just sit and say a prayer of gratitude. Simple, simple things that can shift your whole trajectory in life. And proud to say now that they have for me personally.

I realize that my dad never took a second to “chill.” To just be. And that was also what I had done my entire life thus far. Worried that I’d miss out, or any time not “doing” would be a big waste. That there was WAY too much to conquer and do, to take a break.

The beauty is I’ve learned that’s a lie. The simple daily reminders can ease the feel of busyness. They can reset us to have more energy and vitality to push through to make our dreams (or to do list) a reality. Just by consciously taking a deeper breath or being aware of the sounds that are in our peripheral for a minute or two. 

The funny thing is, our brand Slow Yourself Down isn’t necessarily slowing down. We’re talking about opening new locations, our numbers are growing, we get letters from people daily sharing how this simple mantra has completely changed their life. But our favorite thing about all of it is we’re all learning together how simple it could actually be, and how much of an effect it can have on your health and well-being.

This is just a simple testimony of how an over the top work and do-aholic can change. By just shifting a few minor things I’ve been able to find the frequency of peace. Life hasn’t slowed down, it’s actually gotten busier, but I’ve been able to find the stillness in the midst. I hope this helps and please share if you know anyone on the same trajectory as I was.